Select a physician
)inding a personal physician is an important step toward a healthier lifestyle. A primary-care physician can help patients maintain a healthy lifestyle, said Valerie Jacoby, clinic manager for Saline Surgical Associates, Brizzolara Urology and Associates, and Bryant Medical Clinic. “You need to have one provider to treat your overall health — to be the center of your medical care,” she said. “A primary-care physician can trend your health over time. Routine checkups with your PCP can potentially prevent a lot of additional health issues down the road.” Here are some factors to consider when choosing a new doctor.
,1685$1&(
Often, a patient’s choice of doctors is limited by the patient’s health-insurance carrier. Insurance companies have contracts with individuals and group practices. It is possible that using a doctor outside of an insurer’s primary-care network may subject patients to out-of-pocket expenses. “Most insurance companies will have an in-network provider roster — available by calling a member-services representative,” Jacoby said. “The number should be listed on the back of your insurance card.”
0((7,1* <285 1(('6
Experts recommend selecting a general practitioner to serve as one’s primary-care physician. This professional may be an internal-medicine doctor or a member of a family practice. Primary-care doctors should be able to understand patients’ medical needs and offer appropriate referrals should a patient need a specialist. Patients should select a PCP they feel confident working with in the long term. “Are you comfortable talking to them? Can you build a relationship with them? Can you speak to them freely about all of the issues in your life?” Jacoby said. “These things are all very important when choosing a PCP.” Under some circumstances, it is better to select a doctor practicing within a particular specialty. Women might feel more comfortable with an obstetrician/gynecologist as a PCP, while a pediatrician might be the PCP for children. Seniors could even have a geriatric specialist for their PCP.
$6. )25 5()(55$/6
Friends, family and other trusted sources are a great way to find a new doctor. The American Medical Association or local physician’s organizations can be another useful resource. Before making a final decision, patients should confirm that the physician has a current license to practice with the state medical board, which will also tell patients if the physician has any pending disciplinary action or complaints. Not every doctor accepts new patients. After compiling a list of possible physicians, patients should contact each one to ensure that they accept new patients, as well as their insurance.
&219(1,(1&(
Convenience is another important factor when choosing a physician. His or her office should be easily accessible to a patient’s home or workplace. Jacoby recommended choosing providers who use a patient portal, which provides 24-hour access to medical records. “It’s convenient to be able to communicate with the provider through the portal and request appointments and med refills — all without having to make a phone call,” she said. Finally, patients should gauge the responsiveness of the provider and office to make sure they are easy to get in touch with, Jacoby said. Patients should ask how long it usually takes to book an appointment. If an emergency arises, they will want to know that their new doctor can meet with them quickly.